What This Algorithm Does
PLL parity occurs when two pieces (either corners or edges) need to be swapped, but a standard 3×3 PLL algorithm would swap an odd number of pieces, leading to an unsolvable state. This algorithm fixes that.
Recognition Guide
How to recognize PLL parity:
- You've reduced the cube to a 3×3 state
- All centers and edges are paired correctly
- You're at the PLL step (permuting last layer)
- Two pieces need to be swapped, but no standard PLL works
- This is impossible on a real 3×3 cube
Why it happens: During edge pairing, an odd number of edge pairs were swapped, creating an "impossible" state.
For Kids 👶
PLL parity is another special puzzle that only happens on bigger cubes. Sometimes when you get to the last step, two pieces need to swap places, but the normal moves don't work!
This special algorithm fixes it. The moves are: Right-Right, Up-Up, Right-Right, Up-Up, Right-Up, Right-Right, Up-Up, Right-Right, Up-Up, Right-Up, Right-Right, Up-Up, Right-Right, Up-Up, Right-Up, Right-Right, Up-Up, Right-Right.
It's a long algorithm, but once you learn it, you can fix PLL parity every time!
For Adults ⚡
PLL parity is a permutation parity case that occurs when an odd number of edge pairs were swapped during the edge pairing phase. This results in an "impossible" PLL state that cannot be solved with standard 3×3 PLL algorithms.
Algorithm: 2R2 U2 2R2 Uw2 2R2 Uw2
Execution: This algorithm swaps two edge pairs, effectively correcting the parity. The 2R (wide R) and Uw (wide U) moves affect multiple layers, which is why this only works on larger cubes.
When to use: Apply this algorithm when you recognize PLL parity - typically when you have an odd number of incorrectly positioned pieces that don't match any standard PLL case.
Algorithm
2R2 U2 2R2 Uw2 2R2 Uw2
Note: 2R means "wide R" - turn the right two layers together. Uw means "wide U" - turn both top layers together.
Need help reading cube notation? Learn cube notation →
Common Mistakes
- Not recognizing parity: Make sure you actually have PLL parity before using this algorithm.
- Wrong wide moves: 2R2 and Uw2 mean turn two layers together - don't just turn one layer twice.
- Using on 3×3: This algorithm only works on 4×4 and larger even-layered cubes.
- Confusing with OLL parity: PLL parity affects position; OLL parity affects orientation.
Practice This Case
Test your recognition and execution skills with this specific case.
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